Meaning of "Pain Is Like An Animal" by Danzig

The lyrics of "Pain Is Like An Animal" delve into the profound impact of pain on the speaker's existence. The repetition of the line "I remember" emphasizes the enduring nature of painful experiences, both personal and collective. The reference to Cain's mistake from the biblical story of Cain and Abel suggests a burden of guilt and a sense of being cast out. By likening pain to an animal, the lyrics convey a raw and uncontrollable force that resides within the speaker.

The lyrics suggest that pain often isolates the speaker, as they describe "God's children" getting in their way and non-believers being "underneath their skin." This implies that pain can create a divide between the speaker and others, making them feel separate and misunderstood. The imagery of pain being a "lonely place" and a "lovely place" reflects the complex nature of suffering. While pain may feel isolating, it also possesses an allure and a certain beauty that captivates the speaker, perhaps because it has become an integral part of their identity.

The repeated lines "And it's a long time bleedin' / And it's a cold down to my bones" emphasize the enduring and chilling effects of pain. The speaker feels as though they have been burning up with this pain like a demon, suggesting that it is something inescapable and tormenting. The desire to "pick it up and take it home" might imply a longing to fully embrace and understand this pain, as if it holds some deeper meaning or purpose.

Overall, the lyrics of "Pain Is Like An Animal" explore the all-encompassing nature of pain and its profound impact on one's psyche. They highlight the isolating and captivating aspects of pain, while also expressing an enduring struggle to reconcile with it.